As one of India's most picturesque hill stations, Darjeeling is called the "Queen of the Hills”, featuring exceptional views of Mt Kanchenjunga. This charming hill town is not only noted for Eastern Himalayan sights but also famous for colonial grandeur, beautiful tea gardens, the famous Toy Train experience, and stunning views of Sunrise.
One crucial fact, though, comes up before you start packing for the trip: How much does a vacation to Darjeeling actually cost? Your travel preferences, like luxury, mid-range, or budget, will determine the answer. Transportation, choosing the best hotel in Darjeeling, food, attractions, and hidden fees all decide the budget.
Transportation Cost to Darjeeling
The location of your departure and the form of transportation you select will have an impact on the overall cost of your trip to Darjeeling.
By Air
- Nearly 70 kilometers from Darjeeling, Bagdogra (IXB) is the closest airport.
- Round-trip airfare from key Indian cities: INR 4,000 to INR 10,000
- A one-way private taxi from Bagdogra to Darjeeling costs between INR 2,500 and INR 3,500.
Your airfare will be your largest outlay if you're traveling from Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore.
By Train
New Jalpaiguri is the closest train station (NJP), and budget options are available.
Sleeper train ticket: INR 600 to INR 900
3AC: Between INR 1,500 and INR 2,500
Taxis from NJP to Darjeeling cost between INR 2,000 and INR 3,000; shared taxis are less expensive, costing between INR 500 and INR 600 per person.
By Road
If you're coming from Siliguri city or other neighboring towns like Jalpaiguri:
Cost per person for a shared taxicab: INR 300 to INR 500
Private taxi: Between INR 2,500 and INR 3,000
The approximate cost of round-trip transportation:
- Traveler on a tight budget: INR 3,000 to INR 6,000
- Traveler in the mid-range: INR 6,000 to INR 12,000
- Traveler in luxury: INR 12,000 to INR 20,000+
Accommodation Cost in Darjeeling
Darjeeling provides a variety of hotel, homestay, and resort options, ranging from opulent heritage hotels to affordable homestays and dormitories.
Low-Cost Hotels & Homestays
- INR 800 to INR 1,500 per night
- Basic amenities in tidy rooms
- Perfect for lone travelers and backpackers
Hotels in the Mid-Range
- Per night rates of INR 2,000 to INR 5,000
- Nice views, cozy accommodations, and room service
- Ideal for families and couples
Luxury Hotels & Resorts
- Around INR 15,000 to INR 6,000 per night
- Excellent views, a spa, heating, and delicious food
- Ideal for luxury vacationers or honeymooners
Average Price for a Three-Night Stay(very common for Darjeeling tour plans):
- Budget tours: INR 3,000 to INR 5,000
- In the middle: INR 6,000 to INR 15,000
- Luxury: Between INR 18,000 and INR 45,000+
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The Cost of Food in Darjeeling
Darjeeling offers tasty and reasonably priced food. And, there are several alternatives available, ranging from traditional Tibetan thukpa to steaming momos.
Low-Cost Meals
- Small restaurants or street food: INR 100 to INR 250
- Budget for food each day is about INR 500 to INR 800
Restaurants in the Mid-Range
- INR 300 to INR 700 per meal
- Budget for food each day is INR 1,000 to INR 1,500
Fine Dining
- INR 1,00 to INR 2,500 per meal
- Budget for food each day INR 2,500+
Estimated 3-Day Food Cost:
- Spending limit: INR 2,500
- In the middle: INR 3,000 to INR 4,500
- Luxurious: INR 7,000 to INR 10,000 or more
DarjeelingSightseeing and Local Travel Costs – Overview
There are a number of must-see sites in Darjeeling, and most entry tickets are reasonably priced, but local transportation costs may be higher.
Well-liked Attractions and Entry Prices
- Batasia Loop: INR 20
- Himalayan Mountaineering Institute: INR 50
- Padmaja Naidu Zoo: INR 110 for adults & kids below 6 years usually get free entry
- Visits to tea gardens: These are typically free, while guided tours might cost between INR 100 and INR 200.
- Joy Ride Toy Train Ride: INR 1,000 to INR 1,500 per person
Local Sightseeing Packages
Tours of the attractions in shared taxis in Darjeeling:
- INR 1,500 to 3,000 per day
- For a full day of touring, take a private taxi that may cost between INR 3,000 and INR 4,500
Shopping and Miscellaneous Expenses
What makes Darjeeling renowned is:
- Tea (prices vary from INR 300 to INR 1,500 per pack)
- Crafts and textiles
- Souvenirs
Your preferences will determine your shopping budget, but you can set aside:
- Between INR 1,000 and INR 3,000 for moderate purchases
- More than INR 5,000 for presents and fine tea
Additionally, you can think about:
- Coffee and snacks: INR 500–INR 1,000
- Small fees and tips: INR 300 to INR 500
Hidden Costs You Shouldn’t Skip or Overlook
No doubt, small yet frequent expenses are often underestimated by travelers
- Heater costs range from INR 300 to INR 500 per night
- Increases in hotel rates during peak seasons (April, June, and October)
- Additional taxi fees because of the mountainous terrain
- ATM accessibility (bring some cash)
These might easily add INR 2,000 to INR 5,000 to your Darjeeling tour budget.
How You Can Reduce Your Darjeeling Trip Cost
Here are some wise travel suggestions if you want to cut costs:
1. Take Off-Season Trips
For less expensive hotels and airfares, go in late winter or during the early monsoon season.
2. Choose Public Transportation
Travel expenses are greatly reduced with shared jeeps.
3. Make Reservations in Advance
Hotels in Darjeeling and flights are less expensive when reserved four to six weeks in advance.
4. Avoid Popular Holidays
There are 20–40% price increases during Durga Puja, Christmas, New Year, and summer holidays.
5. Stay in Homestays
Homestays provide inexpensive local experiences.
Final Words
The cost of Darjeeling is moderate when compared to Shimla, North Sikkim, or Manali. Because of its hilly settlement, transportation and stay continue to be the main expenses.
Depending on your travel preferences, a Darjeeling trip can cost anything from INR 9,000 to INR 20,000 per person. Although the location isn't very costly, your final expenditure will be much influenced by the type of stay and mode of transportation you choose.
A mid-range three to four-day trip to Darjeeling, including good hotels, meals, sightseeing, and transportation, often costs between INR 11,000 and INR 18,000 per head.
So, if you are looking for a cozy stay and sightseeing arrangement for your upcoming trip here, reach out to the best hotel in Darjeeling, such as Windamere Hotel.
